The F-15E Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter built for both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, according to the official US Air Force website.
A broad range of avionics and electronic systems enables the F-15E to operate at low altitudes, during the day or night, and in all weather conditions.
The aircraft is operated by two crew members, a pilot and a weapons systems officer. It is designed to travel long distances to reach a target, strike enemy positions on the ground, and return while handling threats along the way.
The F-15E can fly at speeds of up to 1,875 miles per hour (3,017 km/h), or Mach 2.5, and carry a payload exceeding 20,000 pounds (9,071 kgs), The New York Times reported.
The navigation system combines a laser gyro and a Global Positioning System to keep track of the aircraft’s position at all times.
The APG-70 radar allows crews to identify ground targets from a distance. After scanning an area, the system lets the crew hold the air-to-ground image and then switch back to air-to-air mode to check for threats.
